New Delhi: Uttar Pradesh’s Banda has once again emerged as the hottest city in India, as severe heatwave conditions continue to grip several parts of north, west and central India. According to the India Meteorological Department, Banda recorded a maximum temperature of 47.4 degrees Celsius on May 26, making it the country’s hottest city for the second consecutive day.
The intense heat has disrupted daily life in the region. With scorching sunlight and hot winds blowing through the day, roads remained largely deserted and people avoided stepping out unless necessary. The situation has become difficult not only during the daytime, but also at night, as residents are getting little relief from the heat.
Banda has been witnessing record breaking temperatures for nine consecutive days, with the mercury remaining above 47 degrees Celsius. On May 25, the city had recorded 47.6 degrees Celsius, again making it the hottest place in the country. The next day, the temperature dipped only slightly by 0.2 degrees Celsius, but remained nearly 4 degrees above normal.
Several other districts of Uttar Pradesh are also facing brutal heat. Urai recorded 45.8 degrees Celsius, Jhansi 45.5 degrees Celsius, Prayagraj 45.4 degrees Celsius, Agra 45.3 degrees Celsius and Hamirpur 45.2 degrees Celsius. The rising temperature has also increased pressure on electricity and water supply, as demand continues to climb during the heat spell.
Rajasthan too remained under intense heatwave conditions. Sri Ganganagar was the second hottest city in India on Tuesday, recording 47 degrees Celsius. Bikaner and Phalodi touched 46 degrees Celsius, while Jaisalmer and Kota crossed 45 degrees Celsius. Jaipur recorded a maximum temperature of 43.2 degrees Celsius.
In Maharashtra’s Vidarbha region, Brahmapuri recorded 46.6 degrees Celsius, while Chandrapur touched 46.4 degrees Celsius and Wardha reached 46 degrees Celsius. Heatwave conditions were also reported in Nagpur and Gondia. Haryana, Punjab and Delhi also faced high temperatures, with Sirsa at 46 degrees Celsius, Bathinda at 45.8 degrees Celsius and Delhi at 43.5 degrees Celsius.
The weather department has indicated that heatwave conditions may continue over parts of northwest and central India for the next few days. However, some states may get temporary relief due to rain and strong winds. Until then, residents in affected areas have been advised to avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure, stay hydrated and take precautions against heat related illness.